Kittson County partners up to promote biodiesel in Minnesota

The Kittson County Soybean Growers Association is teaming up this summer in northwestern Minnesota by partnering with the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) to promote biodiesel.
“We are growing more and more soybeans in our area and Biodiesel production has been a good market for soybean oil to go” says Chuck Dziengel, Kittson County Soybean Growers Association President. “The added sixty-three cents of value in every bushel of soybeans really makes a difference to our farm’s profitability.”The major highlight of their biodiesel promotion is the opportunity to host the long-awaited biodiesel truck built by the DieselSellerz, stars of Discovery Channel’s hit show “Diesel Brothers.”

“This truck helps us get the conversation going about biodiesel” Dziengel says. “It’s a real eye catcher, and it allows us an opportunity to answer questions about the fuel. People are shocked when they find out they can use biodiesel blends up to 20 percent without any engine modifications.”The “DieselSellerz” truck will be making its stop in Kittson County Thursday, June 14 at C&M Ford and Revelation Ale. The counties’ goal for hosting the truck is to create awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of biodiesel use in Minnesota.“Biodiesel contributed roughly $1.7 billion to the state’s economy last year,” says Kris Folland, Kittson County board member. “It also combats air pollution. The increase to a 20 percent blend of biodiesel during the summer is like removing the emissions from nearly 202,000 vehicles. Biodiesel is good for farmers, the environment and the economy.”Minnesota moved to using a 20 percent blend of biodiesel in May this year until Sept. 30 when the blend will go back to 5 percent during the winter months. The county also hopes to answer questions and dispel myths about biodiesel.
“I check my tanks regularly for water buildup.” Kittson County Soybean Growers Association board member Theresia Gillie says. “Water contamination is a major factor for all fuel issues, which can be totally avoided with a little tank management. We want people to know the fuel works great and adds value to the rural economies.”About Minnesota Soybean Research & Promition Council
The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) is the elected board of soybean producers from Minnesota who direct investments of the state’s checkoff dollars in program designed to increase profitability to Minnesota soybean farmers.